Daily Gospel Reflection for April 23, 2015

Today's Gospel: John 6:44-51

Optional Memorial of Saint George, Martyr

Optional Memorial of Saint Adalbert, Bishop and Martyr

Today I often wonder how many people understand the Eucharist. I mean, how many people really get it? This weekly meal we receive in church is not just a mere symbol of Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross. It is His true body and blood. Jesus does not just ask us to believe this; He is quite clear: “Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.”

Yet, how many times do we walk up to Communion and just go through the motions. We certainly do not mean any disrespect. However, our senses are deceiving. Since we don’t physically “see” Jesus up there at the altar, we sometimes forget where we are or what we are celebrating. However, today Jesus reminds us what the Eucharist really is. He says, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my Flesh for the life of the world.” When we remind ourselves of this fact, we remember that Holy Communion is more than a mere symbol. It is our lifeline to Christ.

This Sunday, as we approach the altar, let us remember that Jesus is present with us, here and now in the Eucharist. If we remember this, the Holy Mass will always be the most exciting event in the world.

Ponder:

How have I approached Holy Communion in the past? When have I forgotten the miracle that was occurring?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, let every second of my participating in the Eucharist be a prayer of thanksgiving to you for your sacrifice for me.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Jennifer Gladen